Personal Injury News: Pick Of Last Month: June-2025
Family of Boy Killed by Philly Cop Gets $3M Settlement
The family of a 12-year-old boy who was fatally shot by a Philadelphia police officer in 2022 has reached a $3 million settlement with the city. The child was unarmed and lying on the ground when the officer delivered the fatal shot to his back, according to officials.
Incident Leading to the Shooting
Authorities stated that the boy initially fired a shot at an unmarked police vehicle, injuring one of the four plainclothes officers inside. During the ensuing chase, he discarded the gun about 40 feet away before either tripping or intentionally dropping to the ground. It was then that he was fatally shot.
Officer Charged and Sentenced
The officer, a five-year veteran of the Philadelphia Police Department, was terminated one week after the incident. In April 2024, he pleaded guilty to third-degree murder and received a sentence of eight to 20 years in prison. Prosecutors said he fired at the boy from a relatively close distance during the foot chase.
Family’s Response to Settlement
“This is a tragic case that never should have happened,” the family’s attorney stated. “This resolution provides some measure of justice to the family for their devastating loss.”
Details of Police Operation
At the time of the incident, the undercover officers were conducting surveillance as part of a firearm investigation. They had intended to question a different teenager and spotted the 12-year-old and another 17-year-old nearby. When they attempted to initiate a stop by pulling up with emergency lights activated, a gunshot was fired from outside into the rear of the vehicle, breaking a window and injuring an officer. The accused officer and a second officer returned fire before the chase began.
Contractor to Pay $1M in Cannon AFB Overcharge Case
The U.S. Attorney’s Office has announced a settlement with Noble Supply & Logistics, LLC following allegations that the company overcharged the Air Force under a federal contract at Cannon Air Force Base.
Alleged Violations of Contract Terms
Under the contract issued by the Department of the Air Force, Noble was responsible for providing supplies and materials to support infrastructure and civil engineering operations through the Contractor Operated Civil Engineer Supply Store. Authorities alleged that Noble violated contract terms related to pricing requirements and obtaining competitive vendor quotes, leading to overpayments and violations of the False Claims Act.
False Quotes and Withheld Bids
In one instance, the company allegedly submitted fake, altered, or fabricated vendor quotes for high-value items that required competitive pricing. Officials also claimed that Noble withheld lower vendor bids, which led the Air Force to pay more than necessary.
Settlement Terms and Denial of Liability
As part of the agreement, Noble will pay the U.S. government $1,034,495.99, which includes $250,497.94 in restitution. The payments will be made in semi-annual installments through January 2028. Despite the settlement, Noble denies any wrongdoing, and the agreement does not constitute an admission of liability.
Judge Orders Insurer to Pay $44M in Missouri Prison Case
A Missouri man who previously won an $11 million federal lawsuit against Columbia police officers after his wrongful conviction has now been awarded nearly $44 million by a Missouri judge.
The decision comes after a lengthy legal dispute with the city’s former insurer, St. Paul Fire and Marine Insurance Co., which resisted full payment for almost three years.
Conviction Overturned After Nearly a Decade in Prison
The man was convicted in 2004 for the murder of the Columbia Daily Tribune’s sports editor. He spent nearly a decade behind bars before being released in 2013, after a Missouri appellate panel ruled that he had not received a fair trial. He consistently maintained his innocence throughout the process.
Initial Settlement and Insurer’s Refusal to Pay
Following his 2017 federal court victory against six Columbia police officers, the city’s insurer paid him $2.7 million. His legal team expected an additional $8 million from St. Paul, which had insured the officers between 2006 and 2011. However, the insurer claimed it was not responsible for the bulk of the payout, arguing the wrongful acts occurred before its policy period began.
Bad Faith Claims and Court Rulings
As the man attempted to collect the judgment, the officers involved claimed St. Paul was acting in bad faith, effectively shifting liability onto them and risking their personal bankruptcies. The man’s attorneys took up those claims, and in 2020, Missouri courts ruled that St. Paul was responsible for $5.3 million for the time he spent in prison while the policy was active. The insurer eventually paid that amount.
Jury Finds Insurer Acted in Bad Faith
The legal battle continued, and in November, a jury found that St. Paul had acted in bad faith and engaged in a “vexatious refusal to pay.” This week, a Cole County Circuit Judge upheld the verdict and finalized the award, including punitive damages under Missouri law designed to penalize insurers for misconduct.
Breakdown of the $44 Million Award
The nearly $44 million judgment includes $3.2 million in compensatory damages to the man and officers, $24.2 million in punitive damages, $535,000 for the vexatious refusal claim, and approximately $16 million in interest. Of the total, the six officers are expected to share around $5 million under an agreement with the victim.
Insurer May Appeal
An attorney for the man emphasized the ruling sends a strong message to insurers about honoring coverage obligations. St. Paul has the option to appeal the decision but has not yet responded to media inquiries.
Walmart to Pay $10M in FTC Money Transfer Fraud Case
Walmart has agreed to pay $10 million to settle a civil lawsuit filed by the Federal Trade Commission (FTC), which accused the retail giant of failing to prevent scammers from using its money transfer services to defraud consumers of hundreds of millions of dollars.
Settlement Terms and Conditions
The settlement, filed in a federal court in Chicago, still awaits approval from a U.S. District Judge. As part of the agreement, Walmart has committed to refraining from processing money transfers it suspects to be fraudulent. Additionally, it must avoid aiding sellers or telemarketers it believes are using its services to perpetrate scams.
FTC Highlights Role of Money Transfers in Fraud
“Electronic money transfers are one of scammers’ favorite tools,” said the director of the FTC’s consumer protection bureau. “Once the money is sent, it’s almost impossible to recover. Companies must train staff properly and take steps to protect consumers.” Walmart did not admit or deny wrongdoing as part of the settlement and has not responded to requests for comment.
FTC’s Allegations and Walmart’s Role
The FTC’s lawsuit, originally filed in June 2022, accused Walmart of ignoring red flags that fraudsters were exploiting its services. Walmart, which acts as an agent for money transfer companies like Western Union and MoneyGram, allegedly allowed scammers to cash out funds in its stores.
Fraud Tactics Used by Scammers
According to the FTC, common scams involved impersonating IRS agents, claiming to be relatives in legal trouble, or telling victims they had won fake lotteries and needed to pay fees to claim their prizes. Although a judge dismissed parts of the case in July, the remaining claims continued. This settlement will resolve the ongoing appeal.
Couple Wins $2.25M Over Baby's Autopsy Video Post
A Georgia jury has awarded $2.25 million to a couple who sued a pathologist for posting graphic videos of their decapitated infant’s autopsy on social media.
The Fulton County jury issued the verdict against the doctor who had been hired to conduct a private autopsy following the tragic death of their newborn in July 2023.
Videos Posted Without Consent
According to the lawsuit filed in September 2023, the couple claimed the doctor uploaded several autopsy videos of their child to Instagram without obtaining their consent. While the videos were initially taken down after the couple’s attorneys issued a cease-and-desist letter, the doctor later reposted them, worsening the family's distress, their legal team said.
Pending Lawsuit Against Hospital and Delivering Doctor
In addition to the case against the pathologist, the couple has filed a separate lawsuit against the physician who delivered their baby and the hospital involved in the birth. That case remains ongoing.
Doctor’s Defense and Purpose Behind Posts
The doctor’s attorney argued that the videos were shared to educate other pathologists and to promote independent autopsies in situations where hospital error is suspected. He insisted there was no intent to cause harm, and his client deeply regrets any pain caused to the couple.
Default Judgment and Jury Decision
The court issued a default judgment against the doctor for intentional infliction of emotional distress, invasion of privacy, and fraud after he failed to respond promptly to the lawsuit. During the trial, the doctor expressed remorse, claiming he would never have shared the videos had he known the parents would recognize their child.
Family's Reaction
Attorneys for the couple condemned the doctor’s actions, saying he betrayed their trust. “He poured salt into their already deep wounds,” they stated. “They entrusted him with their child’s remains, and he exploited that trust.”
MSU Reaches $29.5M Deal for 3 Shooting Victims
Three survivors of the February 2023 mass shooting at Michigan State University (MSU) have reached a combined settlement of nearly $30 million with the university. Each of the students sustained life-altering injuries during the tragic incident.
Details of the 2023 Shooting
The shooting occurred on February 13, 2023, when a gunman opened fire on MSU’s campus, killing three students and injuring five others. All three deceased students were from metro Detroit. Among the injured survivors, one student suffered severe brain damage and paralysis.
Legal and University Response
The $29.75 million settlement comes without a formal lawsuit. The victims' legal representatives stated that while intent to sue was filed, no lawsuits were initiated. Instead, MSU opted to settle and support the students directly. “These settlements bring closure to one chapter of these survivors’ healing journeys,” the attorneys said in a joint statement.
MSU’s Official Statement
In a public response, the university acknowledged the gravity of the shooting’s impact: “Michigan State University understands the depth of the impact of the events of February 13 and extends our deepest condolences to those injured and to their families and loved ones.” MSU expressed hope that the settlement would provide “some measure of relief, support and care.”
Family Grateful for Support
The family of one student, Nate, shared that they are grateful for the financial assistance, which ensures lifetime support for his medical and caregiving needs. “We would trade everything for him to get his life and independence back,” they said. “Since that is not possible, we will just keep going forward—his strength and determination are our inspiration.”
Thousands to Get Payouts in Jefferson Landfill Case
Over 5,000 residents living near the Jefferson Parish landfill will soon receive compensation for health issues allegedly caused by toxic fumes released between 2017 and 2019.
$4.5 Million Settlement Approved
A class-action settlement totaling $4.5 million was approved by the Jefferson Parish Council in August. Eligible recipients include residents from Waggaman, Harahan, River Ridge, South Kenner, Metairie, Avondale, and Bridge City. The payments stem from a federal lawsuit in which residents reported symptoms like nausea, headaches, and sleep disruption due to the foul-smelling emissions.
Landfill Confirmed as Source of Odors
Investigations found that the Jefferson Parish landfill in Waggaman had malfunctioning collection systems, which led to the release of noxious fumes. Parish officials admitted to the issue in 2018, and the Louisiana Department of Environmental Quality (LDEQ) confirmed the landfill as the main source of the problem.
More Legal Battles Ahead
While the current settlement is expected to be paid out by the end of summer, litigation continues. About 1,500 residents have filed a new lawsuit in state court against former landfill contractors Waste Connections and APTIM. A prior attempt to gain class-action status in federal court was denied, requiring plaintiffs to now file individual claims for damages.
Ongoing Costs and Impact
The parish has invested over $10 million in landfill improvements since 2018 and entered into a long-term consolidation agreement with neighboring landfill operator River Birch through 2037.
Residents Describe Quality of Life Decline
Some residents said the smell severely impacted their daily lives. One Waggaman resident compared the odor to “burning tires” and said it triggered migraines and forced her to cancel gatherings.
Total Fallout Nears $10 Million
Including two separate settlements—another $4.5 million payout and $700,000 to LDEQ—the total financial toll on Jefferson Parish approaches $10 million. Plaintiffs in the new lawsuit are seeking up to $74,999 each in damages.
Suffolk County Settles Jail Suit with $18M Payout
Suffolk County has agreed to an $18 million settlement to resolve a long-standing class action lawsuit filed by inmates alleging unsanitary and inhumane conditions at its correctional facilities in Riverhead and Yaphank.
The lawsuit, originally filed in 2011, covers individuals incarcerated between April 5, 2009, and the preliminary settlement approval date, excluding those held solely at the new Yaphank facility opened in 2013.
Lawsuit Alleges Inhumane and Unsafe Conditions
The plaintiffs claimed the jails exposed detainees to dangerous and unconstitutional living conditions. These included faulty plumbing, sewage overflows, chronic overcrowding, poor water and air quality, contaminated food, rodent and insect infestations, widespread mold and rust, and dangerously low temperatures. The lawsuit argued these conditions violated the 14th Amendment’s prohibition against cruel and unusual punishment.
Settlement Terms and Structural Reforms
As part of the agreement, Suffolk County must not only pay into the $18 million settlement fund but also commit to repairing and improving the jails. The county is required to appoint a dedicated environmental health officer to address facility concerns at both Riverhead and Yaphank for at least three years. Additionally, the county must fund annual assessments conducted by an independent expert for the same period to monitor progress.
Long Legal Road and Class Certification
U.S. District Court certified the case as a class action in March 2013 after denying Suffolk County’s motion to dismiss. The litigation has spanned over a decade and brought attention to the deteriorating state of county jails. The facilities house both pretrial detainees—those awaiting trial who could not post bail or are held by court order—and sentenced inmates serving terms of up to one year or awaiting transfer to state prisons.
Compensation Details for Affected Inmates
Under the settlement filed on May 19, eligible class members will receive payments based on the number of days they were incarcerated. The fund allocates up to $12 million for per diem payments. Lead plaintiffs may receive up to $20,000 each, while additional plaintiffs designated as leads may receive up to $10,000 each.
Special Injury Awards for Serious Harm
The settlement also includes provisions for additional payments for inmates who suffered serious harm during their incarceration. Plaintiffs or their estates may receive up to $30,000 for cases involving death, dismemberment, or significant ongoing medical issues linked to jail conditions. Those who experienced hospitalization or other temporary but serious medical conditions are eligible for up to $15,000.
Advocates and Plaintiffs Welcome Reforms
The New York Civil Liberties Union (NYCLU), which supported the case, hailed the agreement as a step toward justice. “This settlement provides much-needed relief to the many incarcerated New Yorkers who have been subject to inhumane and unconstitutional conditions,” said NYCLU attorney Bobby Hodgson. “It also means that the county’s longstanding indifference to this manufactured crisis will finally come to an end.” One plaintiff expressed hope for lasting change: “I’m grateful that no one else will have to endure what I experienced. This is a positive step forward for the people of Suffolk County.”
Ongoing Oversight Promised
The NYCLU emphasized it will monitor the county’s compliance with the settlement terms to ensure that promised reforms are implemented. The case represents one of the most significant efforts in recent years to improve conditions and accountability within a local jail system in New York.
LA County to Pay $2.7M to Teen Hurt in Jail Fight Ring
Los Angeles County has agreed to pay $2.7 million to a teenager who was brutally beaten by at least six other youths at Los Padrinos Juvenile Hall in a 2023 incident allegedly orchestrated and condoned by probation officers.
The violent encounter was part of a series of so-called “gladiator fights” within the facility.
Surveillance Video Reveals Officer Complicity
The beating, captured on surveillance footage, showed the 16-year-old being attacked by other detainees one after another, while several officers stood by and failed to intervene. The video, made public during a court hearing, also showed some staff members shaking hands with participants after the incident. The boy’s public defender presented the footage to argue for his release, citing safety concerns.
Dozens of Officers Criminally Charged
In March, a California state grand jury indicted 30 correctional officers on charges including child endangerment, battery, and conspiracy. Authorities allege that these officers enabled or encouraged nearly 70 fights between July and December 2023. More than 140 youths, aged 12 to 18, were identified as victims of the orchestrated violence.
Fights Were Allegedly Pre-Planned
California’s Attorney General stated that the violent encounters were not spontaneous, but often pre-arranged by staff. “They created the time and space for these fights to happen,” he said, describing what appeared to be an organized system of abuse at the facility.
Legal and Policy Responses
The teen’s attorney described the $2.7 million settlement as a necessary first step in holding the LA County Probation Department accountable for its “egregious” misconduct. “This is not just about protecting my client,” he said. “It’s about safeguarding all children in county custody.”
He also noted that this case is not isolated, revealing he represents several other individuals who were harmed at Los Padrinos. So far, he has filed at least 19 lawsuits alleging abuses ranging from permitted violence to sexual assault at LA County’s youth detention facilities.
Facility Criticized for Policy Failures
An internal correction action plan from the Probation Department identified multiple failures in how the 2023 attack was handled. Staff allegedly delayed medical care, failed to inform the boy’s parents promptly, and neglected to review CCTV footage in a timely manner. To prevent future incidents, the department pledged to conduct regular CCTV audits, improve staffing, and ensure immediate medical response and parental notification for injured detainees.
Los Padrinos Ordered to Shut Down
In April, a judge barred the county from housing juveniles at Los Padrinos. The decision followed mounting pressure and prior orders from California’s correctional oversight board. A plan was approved in May to transfer over 100 youths out of the troubled facility.
Ongoing Concerns About Systemic Culture
The boy’s attorney criticized the county’s corrective measures as insufficient, warning of a deeply ingrained “culture problem” within the probation department. “Until we begin changing the mindset and behavior of those responsible for caring for these youth, these tragedies will keep happening,” he said.
Unarmed Man Shot by Cherokee Police Gets $10M Settlement
An unarmed man who was shot inside his home by members of the Cherokee Indian Police SWAT team has reached a $10 million civil settlement.
The payout will come from the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians and the Cherokee County Sheriff’s Office, according to the victim’s attorney, who said final paperwork is expected to be signed soon.
Incident Caught on Surveillance Video
The shooting occurred on December 13, 2022, after officers responded to a disturbance call. Surveillance footage revealed the man and his wife were asleep when officers ordered him to come out with his hands raised. The video showed the man picking up a robotic camera that police had deployed inside his home before opening the camper door. Within seconds, SWAT officers opened fire, striking the man and causing him to collapse.
No Criminal Charges Filed
Officers initially claimed they believed the man was armed. A special prosecutor later reviewed the incident and announced in February 2024 that no criminal charges would be filed against the officers involved.